RwandAir the national carrier of the destination Rwanda and re-known for transporting among others the Rwanda Safari undertakers is credited for becoming the first to acquire the Boeing 737 – 800 Next Generation on the continent of Africa.
Named Karisimbi after the highest Mountain in Rwanda that lies in the Rwanda Gorilla Safari destination of Volcanoes National Park, the brand new aircraft touched the soil of Kigali International Airport on 16th November 2016 and is believed to be the icon of RwandaAir in enhancing capacity and global competitiveness.
The Boeing 737 – 800NG is equipped with a line-fit programme that supports in-flight connectivity including Wi-Fi. It is a dual purpose class cabin featuring 154 seats supporting the passenger expansion drive of RwandaAir including the travellers on Safaris to Rwanda Africa.
The Aircraft is marked with superior reliability, high value returns and fuel efficiency. It has exceptional versatility along with lower operational and maintenance costs thus providing a competitive advantage despite the market it serves or the business model. It proves to be what RwandAir has been in need of especially in the increasing competitive market.
The State Minister for Transport Dr Alexis Nzahabwanimana noted that the acquired aircraft will assist RwandAir in expanding its flights to various parts of the world including Asia, Europe and United States of America effectively. The minister reiterated the government commitment to enhance economic development through Aviation since it is a key driver of tourism and trade.
RwandAir entered into an agreement with the American based Aircraft Lease Corporation in the month of December 2015 to secure two brand new Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircrafts and now one of them is delivered while the remaining Muhabura named after a Rwanda tour volcano in the Virunga massif is anticipated to be delivered in May 2017.

The arrival of the new Aircraft increases the fleet of RwandAir to twelve (12). The Airline has already acquired the IATA safety audit for ground operations along with IATA Operational Safety Audit certificate. Earlier in September, the carrier had acquired first brand new Airbus 330-200 called Ubumwe.
The expansion of RwandAir fleet comes at a time where the carrier intends to commence flights to Gatwick – the second busiest airport in London in 2017. It also intends to venture into the American market by the end of 2017.
The RwandAir certification makes it globally recognised and affirmed by the International Civil Aviation Authority.